Cochranton Area Public Library Acceptable Use Policy

Cochranton Area Public Library allows people of all ages to access the Internet on library computers and on their own personal devices via a public wireless connection. It is hoped that this privilege allows them to connect digitally to information, ideas, people, and services. The library meets the federal requirements for filtering the Internet as mandated by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) in an attempt to make Internet use both safe and enjoyable.

By logging on to a library computer or the WiFi signal, users agree to the following requirements and guidelines:
Requirements:

The library expects its patrons to use the Internet responsibly and to respect the rights of others. When using computers or WiFi at the library the following behaviors are not allowed:

  1. Violating any federal, state or local laws and regulations, including those regarding harassment, libel, slander, fraud, obscenity, child pornography, materials harmful to minors, and any other criminal activities.
  2. Violating copyright laws and database license agreements.
  3. Violating court orders which forbid Internet use or which require supervision while using it.
  4. Displaying or printing graphics or text that may reasonably be considered obscene or harmful to minors.
  5. Engaging in any activity that is deliberately offensive or creates an intimidating, disruptive, or hostile environment.
  6. Invading the privacy of others.
  7. Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities by so-called “hacking.”
  8. Altering or disrupting equipment or library system performance.

Use of the Internet by Minors:

A child’s use of the Internet in the library is the responsibility of that child’s parent or guardian. Parents or guardians are encouraged to learn about safe use of the Internet and develop rules for their children regarding sharing of personal information and images. Library users must be at least 13 year of age to use the Internet without supervision. Children up to age 12 must have direct parental supervision while using the Internet. This means that an adult should remain in close proximity to the child at all times during Internet use.

Guidelines:

  • Use of the library’s Internet connection is not guaranteed to be private. The library may be required by law enforcement authorities to provide information about your library activities, including Internet use.
  • The library is not responsible for the availability or content of websites other than the library’s own web site. No Internet filter is 100% effective, so some sites that should be blocked may not be, while other sites that should not be blocked are blocked. Patrons should let staff know about any of these sites so that the filtering status can be edited.
  • The library is not responsible for damages to equipment or data on a user’s personal devices resulting from websites accessed or from software or data downloaded using the library’s Internet connection.
  • The library is not responsible for security breaches of a user’s data or personal accounts.
  • The Wi-Fi signal is filtered for content but is not secure. Anti-virus, security, and privacy are the responsibility of the patron.
  • Patrons should log on with their library card number. This will not be possible if the card has expired or if it carries encumbrances of $3.00 or more. Non-residents may request guest passes. Service is limited to 45 minutes a day. Time may be added or subtracted at staff discretion.
  • Computers are for single use, not for shared use. This rule is flexible if there is room. Persons in the technology area who are not using technology may be asked to move elsewhere if seating is required for other users.
  • Printing is available for a fee. All printed pages must be paid for, whether accidental or intentional.
  • Staff members are sometimes limited in regard to the ability to give one-on-one instruction due to the needs of other patrons and other duties. It is recommended that those with beginning skills take some of the computer classes offered by the library.

Failure to follow the requirements and guidelines outlined in this policy may result in the limiting or loss of computer, Internet, WiFi, and/or patron privileges at the Cochranton Area Public Library on a temporary or permanent basis.

Adopted 8-15-2017
Cochranton Area Public Library Board of Trustees
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